VASCO
At a time when concerns are being raised on the sustainability of Dabolim airport in light of a growing number of airlines shifting to Mopa airport, Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar has said a large influx of tourists in Goa could necessitate a third airport in the State.
Dhavalikar was speaking to reporters after addressing grievances and scheme related issues at Cortalim Panchayat in the presence of Cortalim MLA Anton Vas, Cortalim ZP Merciana Vas and others as part of the Panchayat Chalo Abhiyan initiative in Cortalum constituency.
“Since liberation, there has been a rise in tourist population in Goa. If we go by this rate of tourist arrivals, we may fall short in the next ten years to cater to the rising number of arrivals and there could be a demand that we need another airport in Canacona as well in the future,” said Dhavalikar.
Commenting on demolition of houses in the Airport Funnel Zone, Dhavalikar said: “We must realise that there will be a buffer zone in areas where the Navy is present. However in this case, there may have been some issues or it could be politically motivated and we have to see into it. The matter has gone to the High Court and we may have to abide by the court decisions.”
The power minister informed that the government launched a new scheme for solar energy. “People must take advantage of solar energy, especially by having solar roofing on their houses and buildings,” said Dhavalikar.
Dhavalikar said sarpanchas and panchas of the panchayats in Cortalim constituency had raised various issues. “Their issues will be resolved at our end. Many people also raised issues, mostly on double tracking and power-related issues,” added Dhavalikar.
Cortalim MLA Anton Vas and Cortalim Sarpanch Senia Pereira also spoke on the occasion.
